Celebrating AANHPI Month: Meet Sahatsawat Butsatum
Throughout May, Avangrid is celebrating Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month. AANHPI identifies a diverse group of Americans representing over 50 ethnic groups, more than 30 countries, and hundreds of languages — a multi-faceted community!
Each week of the month, we’ll be meeting members of the AANHPI community. This week, meet Sahatsawat Butsatum, an associate engineer at RG&E.
Briefly describe your role. What is one way you’ve grown since starting at Avangrid?
I am an Associate Engineer in the Gas System Planning department at RG&E (Rochester Gas and Electric), which involves analysis and feasibility studies of customer demand on our gas networks, and dedication to the safety of our natural gas equipment for our customers. Since I started my career at Avangrid, my work in Gas System Planning has connected me to many departments throughout the company, as well as professional knowledge and experience. I have also appreciated how welcoming my Rochester co-workers have been in helping me adjust to living in a new city after college.
What is your Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) heritage and how has it shaped the person you are today?
As a Thai immigrant who moved the United States about 10 years ago. Thai cultures and customs have shaped how I carry myself as well as my personality. I also maintain a passionate love of Thai foods and cooking.
When I moved to the U.S., it was a challenge to blend in. After some time, I realized you should be yourself, think for yourself and not base your self-worth on acceptance by others. This is the greatest lesson that I have learned in my life — embrace who you are and do not fear to be different.
What are some of your favorite traditions from your heritage?
My most favorite Thai tradition is making Thai food. When I was growing up, I saw my grandparents, aunties, and mother always loved cooking, so the passion of cooking has been passed on to me.
We also like to try to visit a local Thai restaurant to get some food and listen to stories from the restaurant owners – when traveling in or relocating to in the past. It is incredible to hear many stories about their journeys to be here. Each Thai restaurant has a unique story, and it has a cultural identity in their respective community.
Who in the AAPI community has inspired you most?
It is my mom. She taught me to be who I am today: Be independent, humble, respectful, and care for others. I would not be here without her support, determination, strength, sacrifice, and love.
Becoming an engineer is one of my biggest gifts to her so she can be proud of me.
What is the project you’re working on, either personally or professionally, that most excites you?
I have a goal of visiting 50 countries before I turn 50! I grew up on three continents (Asia, Europe, and North America) while my family served in the Armed Forces.
I got an incredible opportunity to travel to many places and keep continuing until today. So far, I have traveled to Thailand, Laos, Japan, South Korea, Germany, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. Next stop: Singapore!!!
Still more places to go, and I am taking recommendations!
If you ask about most favorite place to visit so far, it will undoubtedly be Tokyo, Japan.
Travelling boosts happiness, openness, and satisfaction. It does really open my new views, ideas, and perspectives wherever I go.
What’s one step you’ve taken to promote a more inclusive workplace?
My best way to promote an inclusive workplace is food. Food is always bringing people together and it is not different here. My co-workers and I routinely plan several cultural lunches together to experience different cuisine, especially Asian Cuisine. This is the best way to promote culture and team bonding as well.
If you have never tried Thai food, I suggest: Thai Basil Fried Rice (as common as hamburger is here), Thai Iced Tea (good on a hot day), and the classic Pad Thai (with Peanut Sauce).
